Europol warns: Crypto wallets face quantum threat

6.6 Security

Oct 7, 2026

Europol warns that crypto wallets are the main risk for quantum attacks and urges the industry to adopt quantum-resistant cryptography before quantum computers threaten wallet security.

Europol has issued several reports highlighting crypto wallets as the primary vulnerability in the face of emerging quantum computing threats. While current cryptographic protections are secure against classical computers, Europol warns that quantum computers could potentially derive private keys from exposed public keys, enabling unauthorized access to funds. The agency urges the crypto industry and policymakers to proactively transition to quantum-resistant cryptography and strengthen wallet security, noting that adapting existing systems will require significant time and resources. Although blockchain hash functions remain largely resistant to quantum attacks, wallets with public keys visible on-chain are especially at risk. Europol also points out that migrating to post-quantum cryptography may increase transaction fees and slow confirmation times due to larger signature sizes. The agency recommends moving funds from vulnerable wallets before quantum attacks become feasible and stresses the importance of early action to safeguard cryptocurrencies and sensitive data.